Disclaimer: MAXIM Cleaning & Restoration, Inc. does not represent or warrant that the information accessible via recommended websites is accurate, complete or current. MAXIM Cleaning & Restoration, Inc. will not be held liable for any injuries, losses, illness, or damages arising from information, recommendations, test results and/or products represented in conjunction with these sites. Only a certified environmental specialist can perform those functions and/or be willing to testify in a court of law from any proceedings that may arise.
- How can MAXIM's team of Certified Mold Removal and Remediation Specialists help me if I think I have mold?
MAXIM can:
- Discuss your personal mold concerns and questions
- Explain available options to help you make an informed decision about which option best meets your needs
- Refer you to a Certified Environmental Hygienist [CEH]
- Provide detailed cost proposals with supportive documents
- Description of work to be performed
- Important discussion points to consider
- Clearly outlined itemization of charges
- Proof of qualified training certifications
- Proof of General Liability Insurance
- Proof of Contractors Pollution Insurance specific for mold removal
- What is a Certified Environmental Hygienist?
- A Certified Environmental Hygienist is an expert who is highly trained, certified, and experienced in the professional practice of environmental hygiene which includes activities aimed at improving or maintaining the standard of basic environmental conditions affecting the well being of people.
- What can a Certified Environmental Hygienist do for me?
- Provide comprehensive assessments and sample testing.
- Discuss their findings, test results and recommendations.
- Develop Mold Removal/Remediation Action Plans that follow accepted industry guidelines.
- Provides post removal / remediation assessments, testing and documentation verifying the Action Plan has been completed.
- Investigate claims of health effects and symptoms related to mold exposure
- Identify moisture causation sources
- Can I use a Home Inspector to tell me if I have mold?
- A Home Inspector can tell you if you might have suspected mold present. A Home Inspector may even be able to take samples of suspected mold. These samples are usually sent to an out-of-state lab. Commonly a report will be generated that list the types of molds that are present and to what degree they are present. Most likely nothing will be said in the report detailing proper removal. This is a good start; however, difficulties can arise when interpretation is needed and a plan to remove the mold by professionals is needed. That is why MAXIM highly recommends a property owner seek the knowledge and expertise of a Certified Environmental Hygienist.
- MAXIM adheres to strict guidelines set by the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) which outlines the involvement of a Certified Environmental Hygienist, versus a home inspector, in the mold remediation process.
- A Certified Environmental Hygienist can develop a Mold Removal/Remediation Action Plan which outlines exactly what needs to be done to rid your property of contamination and damage, according to accepted industry guidelines.
- Just like with any contractor we encourage you to research your Home Inspector. Find out about their training related to taking samples, what equipment they use, who performs their sample analysis, and what type of knowledge they have about building science.
- What if I want to remove the mold myself?
- A property owner can address mold any way they wish.
- Most important to remember is that "Mold contamination should be physically removed from a structure and contents to return them to Condition 1 (normal indoor environment)" according to the ACGIH (American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists).
- Above all no person with compromised health should consider cleaning up mold contamination without first learning more about potential risks of exposure and discussing it with their physician. Knowledge and caution are your best allies.
- Contamination may warrant the use of a professional certified and trained in mold remediation and one who carries specific pollution insurance coverage which is in addition to general liability insurance such as MAXIM.
- A Certified Mold Remediation Specialist must follow accepted guidelines of the industry.
- Remember - it is vital to have the right professional, at the right time, to provide the right services to insure your needs are met the right way.
- With many mold contamination situations it is advised that an assessment be performed by a Certified Environmental Hygienist (CEH) also known as an Environmental Industrial Hygienist. A CEH is an independent professional that can assess the situation thoroughly for potential cause(s) and extent of damage. They can also provide sample testing if warranted. A CEH can provide a Mold Removal/Remediation Action Plan. This valuable report outlines exactly what needs to be done to rid your property of contamination and damage according to industry standards and guidelines,. This Plan can then be shared with a professional certified mold remediation expert such as MAXIM. We will then make arrangements to visit your property, perform our work scope assessment, develop a cost proposal and provide you with written proof of our qualifications and insurance documentation.
- A note about chlorine bleach "killing" mold. Chlorine bleach can "kill" mold spores' ability to reproduce. However, bleach does not "kill" or remove mycotoxins that are in many molds. Mycotoxins can continue to adversely affect a person's health after bleach has been used. Bleach can create many additional problems to health and personal property. Remember: "Mold contamination should be physically removed from a structure and contents to return them to Condition 1 (normal indoor environment)" according to the ACGIH.
- The EPA web site you can research is below. Be patient with your research as you may need to go to numerous sites and link to other sites. It is important to remember "simple guidelines and recommendations" are for "simple mold contamination". Simple typically means 10 sq. ft. or less. If you have a larger area than 10 sq. ft., you should seriously consider consulting and / or hiring a professional such as MAXIM Cleaning and Restoration or a Certified Environmental Hygienist. Call MAXIM at 402-697-9004 and our friendly and professional staff will be happy to refer you to a local Certified Environmental Hygienist.
EPA - Most Extensive Information - http://www.epa.gov/
EPA - EPA Mold Guide - http://www.epa.gov/mold/pdfs/moldguide.pdf
